To prove the 2013 Ford Escape's Innovative hands-free liftgate only opens when the driver wants it to, the company subjected it to a variety of tests, including a dog retrieving a thrown stick, a roll-away basketball, and other common scenarios owners may encounter.
The system is specifically designed to detect the shape and kicking motion of a human leg and shin, and also requires the Escape's remote to be in close proximity to the vehicle for the system to work as designed.
The system was also tested under extreme weather conditions of as cold as -40 degrees Farenheit. In all conceivable scenarios, the system worked as designed. A kick also initiates the closing of the liftgate for added convenience. The hands-free liftgate will also be offered as an option on the 2013 Ford C-Max hybrid crossover when the vehicle is introduced later this fall.
Watch the demo video here.